Rodigan kisses goodbye to Kiss in protest

Reggae presenter David Rodigan has resigned from Kiss after 22 years following his show being moved to the midnight slot.

In an announcement on his website, David says he has quit in protest over what he called its “continued marginalisation” of the genre.

He said: “I write this to inform you that today I have resigned from my position as a broadcaster on Kiss FM. I’ve been with station for 22 years, shared some wonderful times with many fantastic artists and members of staff and its with great sadness that I’ve come to this decision.

“Due to their continued marginalisation of reggae music into the twilight zone of radio scheduling, it has left me no option but to make a stand for my passion and the music I love so dearly.”

The show was previously broadcast an hour earlier at 11pm.

A statement from Kiss owner Bauer Media said they were “very sad and disappointed” to confirm Rodigan’s departure.

“We have the utmost love and respect for David both personally and professionally, and he leaves with our sincere appreciation and gratitude for all that he has achieved with Kiss.”

David was awarded an MBE in the 2012 New Year Honours for services to broadcasting and was inducted into the Radio Academy Hall of Fame in 2005. He also broadcasts on BBC Radio 2.